Happy Hollow Park and Zoo in San Jose, CA, has just been certified LEED Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council and is the first amusement park and zoo to receive this certification. Qualification was based on sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design. After a $72 million renovation, the park has also reduced its operating costs.
Renovations include seven vegetated roofs with about 56,000 plants; radiant flooring for thermal control; recycled water, glass, lumber, and base rock; and a Hay Bale Construction in Education Center. The entire project involved renovation of the zoo, education complex, entry plaza, and many rides.
“Not just one building was certified. The certification is for all the new areas of the facility,” says General Manager Suzanne Wolf. “We are proud to be a green model for the nation and the zoo and aquarium industry, as well as the important role we play in our community as a sustainability leader.”
Other green programs at the park include a cell phone recycling collection center, collection of water runoff, and an education center constructed from hay. For more information, visit www.hhpz.org.